The Mount Meru 4-day itinerary involves a challenging trek up the second highest mountain in Tanzania, starting at Momella Gate and ascending through different habitats like rainforest, heath, and alpine desert. Day 1 includes a hike to Miriakamba Huts, Day 2 continues to Saddle Huts with an optional climb to Little Mount Meru, Day 3 involves an early morning summit attempt to Socialist Peak followed by a descent back to Miriakamba Huts, and Day 4 concludes with a descent through the rainforest back to Momella Gate for departure. The itinerary offers stunning views, wildlife sightings, and acclimatization opportunities for those planning to climb Kilimanjaro.
We drive from Arusha to Momela-Gate. After a short registration at the Gate our walk will begin with full armed ranger escorting us, simply we can see along the way the wild animals including elephants, zebras, and giraffe, monkeys, antelope, and often elephants along the route. Dinner and overnight night at Miriakamba Hut.
Elevation (m): (1,387 m to (1,500 m)
Elevation (ft): 4,921 ft) to 3,000 ft )
Distance: 10 km
Hiking Time: 4-6 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest.
The walk from Miriakamba-Hut to the saddle below Little Meru is a short day but a steep climb. The walk will take us slowly along the ridge for a spectacular view of the Meru Crater and the impressive Ash Cone. After hot lunch at Saddle Hut we can make a short climb to the summit of Little Meru (3,820m) for superb views just before sunset.
Dinner and overnight night at Saddle Hut
Elevation (m): 2,514 m to 3,570 m
Elevation (ft): 8,250 ft to 11,712 ft
Distance: 8 km
Hiking Time: 3-5 hours
Habitat: Forest and Moorland.
We start early at around 1:30 a.m. to climb steeply to Rhino Point (3,800 m.) and on to Cobra Point (4350m). We reach the summit (4,566 m) on time for sunrise there is a possibility to see Kilimanjaro Peak above the clouds. The final part of the climb is along a spectacular narrow ridgeline between the sheer inner cliffs and the sloping outer wall of the crater. We take a short rest and brunch at Saddle Hut before continuing the descent to the Meriakamba Hut.
Elevation (m): 3,570 m to 4,565m to 2,514m
Elevation (ft): 14,977ft to 11,712 ft to 8,250ft
Distance: 5 km up 13 km down
Hiking Time: 10 – 12 hours
Habitat: Alpine Desert Moorland and Montane forest.
We take a short and fast descent way through open grassland and mixed forest, with a possibility of seeing wildlife before reaching Momella Gate in the late morning. The returning transfer will be waiting at Momella Gate to pick you to your hotel in Arusha/Moshi.
Elevation (m): 2,514 m to 1,500 m to 1,387 m
Elevation (ft): 4,921 ft to 8,250 ft to 4,921ft
Distance: 10 km
Hiking time: 2-4 hours
Habitat: Montane Forest